#FacesOfTrentU: Philanthropy in Action

Mahnoor Raja, Fourth-year BA Economics Student

"I will be forever grateful to Justin Chiu for honoring me with this prestigious scholarship and giving me an opportunity I would not have had access to otherwise."

Mahnoor Raja's biggest dream has always been to travel abroad and learn about the world. Thanks to the Justin Chiu International Scholarship's generosity, Mahnoor is now in her fourth-year at Trent University studying Economics.

The Justin Chiu Scholarship is a sought-after award that recognizes students from Asia entering international studies that demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, community service, leadership potential, and financial need.

"Today, I can proudly say that the friendships I formed with other Trent students are as precious to me as my real family, as these friendships gave me the comfort of home when I was miles away from home."

Hailing from Pakistan, Mahnoor experienced significant homesickness during her first semester at Trent back in 2017. After living with her parents for most of her life, Mahnoor learned to adapt to living independently and taking care of herself while pursuing her education. A comfort to her was Peterborough's quiet atmosphere, which made for a smooth transition from her Pakistani home.

Mahnoor's connection to Trent, and the Peterborough community, has grown so strong that it feels like a second home to her; when she goes to Pakistan in the summers, she now misses her life in Canada.

"The adventures that took place at Trent always attract me back to campus. The nights spent in the Student Centre studying before an exam or hiking up the Drumlin trail, and every moment spent in Trent is a story I will continue to tell anytime someone asks me about my days at Trent."